We started visiting this deli about a year ago and we’ve been addicted ever since. During the Spring, Summer, and Fall we pop over about once a month to pick up a sandwich and have a picnic at one of the many wonderful places to have a picnic (beaches and parks are plentiful in this area–we are so lucky). The level of access can vary but most parks and lakefront stops have ample parking and level ground. But, more about Il Vecchio Delicatessen…
Things of note:
- There is street parking and we’re able to find a spot right near the deli about 80% of the time. The other 20% I go in and get the food while someone else circles the block.
- There is a small step up into the place from the sidewalk.
- The deli itself is very small and the spaces inside are narrow and crowded to navigate. It may technically accomodate a wheelchair but, personally, I would feel anxious about trying to get around with one in here.
- If you come around lunch time, be prepared to have to stand in line. They are efficient but at peak times we’ve had to stand in line for 20 minutes and sometimes the line is out the door (that should tell you just how delicious the food is here).
- There are 3 tiny tables but this isn’t really a place I would choose to sit and relax. The metal chairs aren’t particularly comfortable (no arms, though) but they are, at least, sturdy. Most people don’t eat in; rather, they take their food to go.
- From what I can tell, there are no public washrooms.
- They only take cash so come prepared.
The menu is small in terms of prepared food and consists of about 8 sandwich offerings, a couple of salad options (summer), soup (winter), and tiramisu that they will proudly tell you is their grandmother’s recipe. Of course, there are plenty of other things you can buy. They have a nice selection of meats, the cheese selection is stellar (they have this walk-in cooler full of wheels and slabs of cheese that I once saw open and you can forget about wardrobes and Narnia because this is the door I want to get lost behind), they offer a variety of European candies, chocolates, & cookies, they have a cooler stocked full of cold drinks, and there is a section with pastas, sauces, and spreads of all kinds.
What I really love is their 4 meat/1 cheese sandwich. It’s always made on a fresh roll and you can select mayo and either sweet or hot mustard. I always pick the sweet mustard because it’s slightly grainy and full of flavour. Aside from the bun, mayo and mustard, I ask for their “regular 4 meats” (it’s some magical combination of carnivorous delights) and usually choose havarti cheese. I ask for it with “all the veggies” which includes lettuce, tomato, pickle, artichoke heart, roasted egg plant, and sun dried tomato. Additionally, you can ask for hot pickled peppers to be added if you so desire. It’s so fresh and full of good quality ingredients, and makes for perfect picnic food.
To top that off, here are some of the views in the area:
While Il Vechio Delicatessen may not be easily accessible for all people and their needs, the sandwiches are delicious and maybe you have a friend who would pop in and grab one for you if navigating cramped spaces is an issue for you?! They are a real lunch treat, I promise.